essay
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essay
A sophisticated, often subjectively colored written treatment of a scientific, cultural, or social topic. In it, the author develops personal thoughts and reflections in a refined linguistic form.
Für den Deutschunterricht musste sie einen Essay über den Begriff der Freiheit schreiben.
For German class, she had to write an essay about the concept of freedom.
In German, 'der Essay' refers to a sophisticated, often literary or philosophical type of text with a personal touch. It is not the same as the English word 'essay', which can also mean a simple school paper.
Thomas Mann ist berühmt für seine politischen Essays.
Thomas Mann is famous for his political essays.
The word 'Essay' belongs in an academic, literary, or journalistic context. It signals a higher stylistic level than a simple report or summary.
In der Sonntagszeitung erschien ein interessanter Essay zur Digitalisierung.
An interesting essay on digitalization appeared in the Sunday newspaper.
Common verbs used with 'Essay' are 'einen Essay schreiben' (to write an essay) or 'verfassen' (to compose/write). The topic is connected with the preposition 'über' (+ accusative).
Die Studentin verfasst einen Essay über moderne Architektur.
The student is writing an essay about modern architecture.
article
'der Artikel' and 'der Essay' are both written texts about a topic. 'Artikel' is especially suitable when a text in a newspaper, magazine, or online provides information. It is usually meant to explain objectively what happened or what something is about. 'Essay' sounds more personal and sophisticated. In an essay, someone develops their own thoughts on a scientific, cultural, or social topic. The words can be confused because both can be published. If the text mainly provides information, 'Artikel' fits; if it contains personal thoughts and reflections, 'Essay' fits better.
Frau Weber schreibt einen Essay über Freiheit in modernen Städten.
Ms. Weber is writing an essay about freedom in modern cities.
Wir lesen am Montag einen Artikel über steigende Mieten.
On Monday we are reading an article about rising rents.